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Introduction:
If you’re losing sleep over itchy bites and mysterious crawlies, you might be dealing with a bedbug infestation. These tiny pests are notoriously hard to eliminate, often requiring expensive treatments or harsh chemicals. But what if the answer to your problem was already in your pantry or growing in your garden? This guide shares a powerful DIY solution using common natural ingredients—safe, effective, and surprisingly fast-acting.
Ingredients:
1 cup diatomaceous earth (food grade – not pool grade)
10 drops tea tree oil or lavender essential oil
2 tablespoons baking soda
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added potency)
Spray bottle of white vinegar (for pre-treatment)
Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment
Protective gloves and mask (optional but recommended during application)
Directions:
Prep the Area:
Strip all bedding and wash in hot water. Dry on high heat. Vacuum the mattress, bed frame, baseboards, and carpets thoroughly.
Spray Vinegar:
Lightly spray white vinegar in affected areas—mattress seams, cracks, behind furniture. Let it dry fully before moving on.
Mix the Powder:
In a bowl, mix diatomaceous earth, baking soda, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add essential oil drops and stir well to combine.
Apply the Mixture:
Wearing gloves and a mask, sprinkle the powder mixture along baseboards, behind the bed, under furniture, and around mattress edges. Use a duster or makeup brush for precise application in tight spaces.
Let it Sit:
Leave the powder undisturbed for at least 48–72 hours. The fine particles of diatomaceous earth cut through the bedbugs’ exoskeletons, dehydrating them to death.
Vacuum Again:
After the waiting period, vacuum the powder thoroughly. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately outside.
Serving and Storage Tips (for the mixture):
Storage: Store any leftover powder mixture in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dry place. Shake well before reuse.
Application Tip: Reapply every 7–10 days for a month to ensure all eggs and new hatchlings are eradicated.
Variations:
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